APPLE VALLEY--A horrific case of suspected child abuse has emerged in the High Desert.

Sheriff’s deputies responding to an anonymous call found ten small children inside a home on Pah-ute Road. Inside a closet was an emaciated 5-year-old boy covered with bruises, burns and lacerations and asking for water.

His mother and her 16-year-old male roommate were immediately arrested on suspicion of child abuse and torture. Both were under the influence of methamphetamines and had ties to gangs in the Los Angeles area.

Desiree Gonzales’ son is undergoing hospital treatment. The other nine children were placed with Children and Family Services. (INT)